Terrorism

Terrorism is the use of force or violence against persons or property in violation of the criminal laws of the United States for purposes of intimidation, coercion, or ransom.

Acts of terrorism include threats of terrorism; assassinations; kidnappings; hijackings; bomb scares and bombings; cyber attacks (computer-based); and the use of chemical, biological, nuclear and radiological weapons.

Terrorists often use threats to:

  • Create fear among the public.
  • Try to convince citizens that their government is powerless to prevent terrorism.
  • Get immediate publicity for their causes.

Be Aware Of Suspicious Behavior

  • Surveillance: Video recording or monitoring activities, taking notes, using cameras, maps or binoculars near key facilities or events
  • Suspicious Questioning: Attempting to gain information in person, by phone, mail, email, etc. regarding a key facility or people who work there
  • Tests of Security: Attempts to penetrate or test physical security or procedures at a key facility/event
  • Acquiring Supplies: Attempting to improperly acquire explosives, weapons, ammunition, dangerous chemicals, uniforms, badges, flight manuals, access cards or identification for a key facility/event or to legally obtain items under suspicious circumstances that could be used in a terrorist attack
  • Suspicious Persons: Anyone who does not appear to belong in the workplace, neighborhood, business establishment or near a key facility or event
  • “Dry Runs”: Behavior that appears to be preparation for a terrorist act, such as mapping out routes, playing out scenarios with other people, monitoring key facilities/events, timing traffic lights or traffic flow, or other suspicious activities
  • Deploying Assets: Abandoned vehicles, stockpiling of suspicious materials, or persons being deployed near a key facility/event
  • If You See Something, Say Something: If you see someone behaving suspiciously, report it to local law enforcement. Tips also can be reported online through the See Something, Send Something app.

Learn More About Specific Types of Terrorist Threats with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency

Biological Threat

A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other biological substances.
Learn more about Biological Threats…

Chemical Threat

A chemical attack is the deliberate release of a toxic gas, liquid or solid that can poison people and the environment.
Learn more about Chemical Threats…

Nuclear Threat

A nuclear blast is an explosion with intense light and heat, a damaging pressure wave and widespread radioactive material that can contaminate the air, water and ground surfaces for miles around. During a nuclear incident, it is important to avoid radioactive material.
Learn more about Nuclear Threats…

Radiation Threat

A radiation threat, commonly referred to as a “dirty bomb,” is the use of common explosives to spread radioactive materials over a targeted area.
Learn more about Radiation Threats… 

Cybersecurity Resources from Ready.gov

Cyberattacks are malicious attempts to access or damage a computer or network system. Cyberattacks can lead to the loss of money or the theft of personal, financial and medical information. These attacks can damage your reputation and safety.

Cybersecurity involves preventing, detecting and responding to those cyberattacks that can have wide-ranging effects on individuals, organizations, the community and the nation.

Additional Cybersecurity Resources

RESOURCES

News